Filter cleaning system and method

Abstract

The present invention discloses a system and method for self-cleaning filters without having to open the filter housing. Wash nozzles are integrated with the filter housings such that when the filters are clogged, both back-wash and regular washing can be performed with practically no down time. Moreover, without opening the filter housing, the hazardous components of the fluid to be filtered can be contained and dealt with before they escape the filter housing, thereby significantly reduces the environmental impact and harm to the working crew.

Description

PRIOR RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This invention claims priority to U.S. 61 / 594,544, filed on Feb. 3, 2012 and incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH STATEMENT[0002]Not applicable.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE[0003]The disclosure generally relates to a system and method for self-cleaning a filter, and more particularly to a system and method for self-cleaning a filter with a nozzle integrated to the filter housing such that the filter can be cleaned without opening the filter housing.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE[0004]Industrial filtration systems generally comprise multiple cartridge filters located within corresponding filter housings, and fluids to be filtered (influents) are supplied to the filter housings for the removal of debris, contaminants and particles. These cartridge filters generally have a cylinder shape with a hollow core. Influents are supplied to the hollow core and flowing outwards through the media of the cartridge filters, leaving d...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention is about a device that allows for cleaning a filter within a filter housing without having to remove the filter first. The device includes a wash nozzle integrated with the filter housing that can move up and down inside the filter. A source of wash fluid is connected to the wash nozzle through a piping system, which also includes a purge pipe for purging fluid and debris during a backwash stage. A gas injection inlet is also provided to introduce a pressurized gas that causes turbulence inside the filter housing to help remove solids. A sealing mechanism is used to prevent leaks that hindle regular filtration operation. The invention also provides a method for self-cleaning the filter cartridge by initiating a back-wash using a high-pressure gas and forcing the fluid out of the filter housing through the purge pipe. The invention helps to keep the filter clean and efficient in filtering without the need for frequent maintenance.

Problems solved by technology

After conducting such fluid processing for a period of time, the debris and particles will accumulate and clog the filter media, causing the drop of filter efficiency.

In worse situations, a cake may aggregate at the inner surface of the filter cartridge and the filter will not function.

However, such backwash procedure suffers a drawback in that the flow of the backwash fluid may not be strong enough to remove or blast the aggregated particulate material or debris on the filter.

However, such design fails to take into consideration the possible liquid / gas escape during cleaning, which may cause health and environmental concern when the influent contains hazardous components.

Furthermore, the design cannot be used with a backwash cycle to improve the cleaning efficiency.

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